The European Green Deal (EGD) is a European Union strategy aimed at transforming the economy into a greener and more sustainable one. Many people associate the new rules and regulations solely with restrictions and costly measures and processes that place a burden on the economy and business. Yet little is said about the fact that it is also creating many new financial opportunities for businesses and farmers who decide to implement environmentally friendly solutions.
What are the key aspects and potential sources of income?
Access to EU funds
In the EU budget for 2021–2027, more than EUR 76 billion has been earmarked for Poland to support the green transition, of which as much as EUR 38 billion is allocated to environmental protection. These funds are available for investment in renewable energy sources, the modernisation of agricultural infrastructure and environmentally friendly measures, such as improving energy efficiency or projects that reduce CO2 emissions.
Eco-schemes and direct payments
Farmers can receive additional payments for introducing environmentally friendly practices. This means that farms that choose to take environmental action – such as using sustainable farming methods – can count on extra financial support. For many farmers, this is a way to increase their income while caring for the environment, without having to give up their existing production.
What are carbon credits?
They are certificates confirming that, thanks to environmentally friendly measures, a farmer has reduced carbon dioxide emissions by one tonne. Farmers can earn them by introducing more sustainable methods, such as reducing tillage intensity, planting cover crops or managing fertilisers better. Companies that emit CO2 buy carbon credits from farmers to reduce their environmental impact and avoid high charges. Taking part in carbon credit programmes gives farmers additional sources of income and also improves soil quality, which makes production more profitable.
Changes in the supply chain
The EGD is not only about sustainable production, but also about a green supply chain. Food produced and transported in line with the principles of sustainable development can help open up new markets and attract investors looking for subcontractors with a low carbon footprint. Potato processors, for example, are already preparing farmers for more environmentally friendly cultivation, so that products made from these potatoes can be produced with a smaller carbon footprint and in a healthier way. Such products have a much higher nutritional value.
The role of energy cooperatives
Energy cooperatives are initiatives that enable local communities, including farmers, to produce their own renewable energy, e.g. from solar panels or wind turbines. Farmers can use the energy for their own needs and sell the surplus. Taking part in such cooperatives helps reduce energy costs and contributes to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Biomethane, obtained through the fermentation of organic materials, is a promising energy source that can be used in various sectors:
Economic and environmental benefits
By investing in renewable energy sources, farmers gain energy independence and financial stability. Such investments also help promote the local economy and reduce the carbon footprint.
Although the Green Deal brings many benefits, it also presents challenges. Farmers are often concerned about complex bureaucratic procedures and the difficulty of implementing new regulations. Farmers’ protests in many EU countries show that better information and policies adapted to local realities are needed. Transparent communication can help convince farmers that investing in the green transition can pay off – not only for the environment, but also for their farms. To spread knowledge on this topic, the Ekoschematy (Eco-schemes) group was set up, which actively promotes knowledge exchange between farmers and experts.
The European Green Deal creates opportunities for those ready to invest in sustainable solutions. Thanks to access to EU funds, new technologies, carbon credits, energy cooperatives and the development of biomethane, farmers and businesses have a chance to earn additional income and gain greater financial stability. It is worth keeping up to date with upcoming changes and looking for solutions that can secure a future that is not only more profitable, but also more environmentally friendly.
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